family biking along hilton head island

8 / 10

With a working boatyard and a everyone-knows-your-name dockside bar (Captain Woody’s), Palmetto Bay gives off a relaxed vibe that transcends labels such as “local” and “tourist.” Our group settled onto the patio at Black Marlin Bayside Grill for brunch--a perfect place to dawdle on a lazy morning ([843] 785-4950). My personal favorite: the shrimp hash--a hearty combo of poached eggs, delicate shrimp, and spicy sausage--is like something you’d expect for breakfast on board a fishing boat. My brother bogarted the sushi nachos with seared tuna and avocado. And the sisters-in-law did serious damage to the dessert-like bananas Foster French toast.

While There
Reserve a spot on the PAU HANA or FLYING CIRCUS catamarans for a bring-your-own-picnic twilight cruise through the sound--a trip highlight. www.hiltonheadisland.com/sailing or (843) 686-2582

Hilton Head: A Marina-by-Marina Guide

This Southern classic is more than beach chairs and nine-irons. Let this be your personal guide to the perfect beach escape.